1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Ford Mustang is newer by 20 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mustang weights approximately 1452 kg more than 1986 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Ford Mustang. 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, 2006 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2006 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 2856 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
