1996 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota 4Runner 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 140 more horse power than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 29 kg more than 2012 Ford Taurus.
Because 1996 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. 2012 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota 4Runner 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:
| 1996 Toyota 4Runner | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Toyota | Ford |
| Model | 4Runner | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1935 mm |
