1987 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Taurus (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 360 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 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 |
