1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 42 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
