2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 5 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 174 kg more than 2009 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (281 Nm). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Taurus | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 49 L |
