2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 182 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.2 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 14.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 72 L |
