1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 25 kg more than 1987 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
