2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mazda DrifterX
To start off, 2006 Mazda DrifterX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Taurus 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 (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Mazda DrifterX. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda DrifterX.
Because 2006 Mazda DrifterX 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 2006 Mazda DrifterX. 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, 2006 Mazda DrifterX (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda DrifterX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda DrifterX has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda DrifterX 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 | 2006 Mazda DrifterX | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | DrifterX |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 21.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
