1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus.
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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Taurus | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
