1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki Equator (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Because 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 2012 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Taurus | Equator |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
