1990 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1990 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 471 kg more than 1990 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Taurus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | S |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
