1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G8 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G8 (414 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 171 kg more than 2009 Pontiac G8.
Because 2009 Pontiac G8 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 2009 Pontiac G8. 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, 2009 Pontiac G8 (563 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2009 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Taurus | G8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 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 | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
