1998 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 10 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 50 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
