2002 Ford Taurus vs. 1989 TVR Speed Eight
To start off, 2002 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR Speed Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR Speed Eight would be higher. At 3,947 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR Speed Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2002 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR Speed Eight should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 357 kg more than 1989 TVR Speed Eight.
Because 1989 TVR Speed Eight 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 1989 TVR Speed Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (340 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1989 TVR Speed Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Taurus. 2002 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1989 TVR Speed Eight has manual transmission. 1989 TVR Speed Eight will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Taurus | 1989 TVR Speed Eight | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Taurus | Speed Eight |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 3947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
