2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 528 kg more than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (461 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | R |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
