2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 539 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2700 mm |
