1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 14 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, 2012 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Because 2012 BMW 530 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 2012 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 BMW 530 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Taurus | 530 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
