1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 2011 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Taurus weights approximately 226 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 2011 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | 350 | Taurus |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3499 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 286 Nm | 337 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1821 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5154 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2868 mm |