2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (259 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 594 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Taurus X. (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus X | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus X | 380 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 259 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
