1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 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 72 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
