2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 66 kg more than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
