1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 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 95 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2009 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 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 2009 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Taurus Focus
Year Released 1998 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3000 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 105 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 264 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors