2002 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 286 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2002 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
