1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (239 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Because 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (382 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 2005 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Taurus | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 239 HP |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
