1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 900 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
