1989 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 17 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 754 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | ML |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2154 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
