2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 313 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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 (281 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
