2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV 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 7 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 137 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 1997 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1997 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | MPV |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
