1987 Ford Taurus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,511 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 160 kg more than 1987 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | E |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2511 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
