1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 Mazda Roadster. 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 (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2370 mm |
