1988 Maserati 228 vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Maserati 228. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Maserati 228 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1988 Maserati 228. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1988 Maserati 228. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 556 kg more than 1988 Maserati 228. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Maserati 228 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 1988 Maserati 228. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1988 Maserati 228 (365 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Taurus. (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Maserati 228 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Taurus. 2012 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1988 Maserati 228 has manual transmission. 1988 Maserati 228 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Maserati 228 | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Maserati | Ford |
| Model | 228 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2868 mm |
