1989 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 465 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Taurus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | CL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| 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 | 176 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
