1986 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1986 Ford Taurus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 294 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Ford Taurus (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Taurus | 1976 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | RX-4 |
Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |