2003 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Taurus.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Taurus. 2003 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Frontier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Taurus | Frontier |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3953 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 257 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |