2001 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Ford Taurus. (201 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Taurus | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Taurus | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
