1996 BMW 332 vs. 1987 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1996 BMW 332 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1987 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 1987 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 332 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2511 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
