1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 1986 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
