1988 BMW 530 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 8 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1988 BMW 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 530 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
