2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 240 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |