2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 118 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Ford Mustang (411 Nm) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2700 mm |
