1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 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), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 667 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.
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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| 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 | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
