1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 10 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 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 100 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 313 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Taurus | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 56 L |
