1998 Ford Taurus vs. 1987 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1987 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
