1985 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1985 Ford Taurus. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 545 kg more than 1985 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Taurus. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Taurus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | ML |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
