1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2003 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 19 kg more than 2003 Subaru Forester.
Because 2003 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Forester 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, both vehicles can yield 176 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2003 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Taurus | Forester |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2530 mm |
