1988 BMW 535 vs. 2008 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2008 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6251 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4501 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 78 L |
