2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 303 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus X | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 62 L |
