1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus 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 72 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus.
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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
