1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 24 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 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Taurus | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2601 mm |
