1997 Mazda MPV vs. 2013 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2013 Ford Taurus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Taurus (284 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Taurus weights approximately 112 kg more than 1997 Mazda MPV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 1997 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Taurus (344 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MPV | 2013 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MPV | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 284 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1834 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2177 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2868 mm |
