1997 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1997 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 225 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A4 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
