1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 BMW 128
To start off, 2011 BMW 128 is newer by 23 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 128 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 128 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 2011 BMW 128. 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, both vehicles can yield 271 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2011 BMW 128 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Taurus | 128 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4361 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
