2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2011 Ford Taurus. (365 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Taurus weights approximately 22 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 Ford Taurus is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Taurus. (474 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 365 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1981 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 72 L |
