2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Ford Taurus X. (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Taurus X. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 778 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Taurus X. (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus X | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 88 L |
