1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 25 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 841 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.
Because 2012 GMC Sierra 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 2012 GMC Sierra. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Taurus | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 413 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3645 mm |
