1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 19 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 312 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | CLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
