2004 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A4 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
