1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. (208 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 215 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Because 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Taurus | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1980 mm |
