1985 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1985 Ford Taurus. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 445 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 S 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Taurus. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
