1989 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1989 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Taurus weights approximately 44 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Taurus | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus | 230 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2800 mm |