1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1987 Volvo 740
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 168 kg more than 1987 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Volvo 740 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 1987 Volvo 740. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 740. (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 1987 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | 740 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2780 mm |
