1996 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Taurus (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2006 Mercury Mountaineer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercury Mountaineer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 558 kg more than 1996 Ford Taurus.
Because 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mountaineer 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Taurus | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 2076 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2890 mm |
