1989 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 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 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Taurus | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
