1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 94 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | C |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2511 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
