2003 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 460 kg more than 2003 Ford Taurus.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2685 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
