2006 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 111 kg more than 2006 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 318 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 BMW 318. 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 (245 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 318 | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
