1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 290 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
