2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
