1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 183 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (339 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Taurus. (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2008 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 3494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6251 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4501 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2870 mm |
