1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2010 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2010 Ford Taurus. (263 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford Taurus weights approximately 52 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Ford Taurus. (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Ford Taurus. 2010 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | SL | Taurus |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 337 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1821 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5154 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2868 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |