1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 445 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 SL 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |