1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 17 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer (210 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 675 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 2004 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 2004 Mercury Mountaineer (344 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2004 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Taurus | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2511 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2900 mm |
