2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 Ford Taurus X. (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Taurus X. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 798 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Taurus X. (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Taurus X | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |