1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 55 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | 230 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
