2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Ford Taurus X. (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Taurus X. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 883 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Taurus X. (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus X | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1490 mm |
