1990 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 61 kg more than 1990 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Taurus | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
