1978 Ford Taunus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1978 Ford Taunus. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1215 kg more than 1978 Ford Taunus. 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 1978 Ford Taunus. 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Taunus | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taunus | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3220 mm |
