2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 2004 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | G |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
