1986 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 90 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
