2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 442 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Ford Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1143 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
