1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus 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 25 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 365 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2512 mm |
