1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI 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 23 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen GTI.
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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | GTI |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
