2002 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 10 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. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 84 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Taurus. 2002 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | GTI |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
