1984 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (201 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 515 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. 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 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 316 2005 Ford Taurus
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Taurus
Year Released 1984 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1767 cc 2999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 201 HP
Torque 140 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 8 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1505 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 68 L