1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lincoln Continental (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 455 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lincoln Continental 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 1981 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1981 Lincoln Continental (313 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Taurus | 1981 Lincoln Continental | |
Make | Ford | Lincoln |
Model | Taurus | Continental |
Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 313 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1855 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1990 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2990 mm |