2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 139 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus | SLK |
Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1446 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |