1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 910 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
