2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lotus Exige. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lotus Exige 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 25 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Exige. (175 HP @ 7800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Exige. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 723 kg more than 2003 Lotus Exige. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige 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 2003 Lotus Exige. 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 (281 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 2003 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Taurus | Exige |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 36 L |
