2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 199 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (370 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1911 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
