2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Buick Rainier 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Rainier (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Because 2004 Buick Rainier 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 2004 Buick Rainier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Buick Rainier (387 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm). This means 2004 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Rainier | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
