1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 113 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ford Mustang 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus, 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (266 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2005 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2870 mm |
