2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 2 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus | 280 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |