1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 785 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Taunus | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taunus | SL |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |