2001 Ford Taurus vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Ford Taurus. (201 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 325 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Ford Taurus (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Ford Taurus | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |