2008 BMW 118 vs. 1998 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 BMW 118. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118.

Because 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 118 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 118 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 118 1998 Ford Taurus
Make BMW Ford
Model 118 Taurus
Year Released 2008 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 264 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 16.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors