2008 BMW 130 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2008 BMW 130 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (220 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 BMW 130.

Because 2008 BMW 130 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 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 130 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 130 1988 Ford Taurus
Make BMW Ford
Model 130 Taurus
Year Released 2008 1988
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 2985 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 261 HP 220 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 271 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 9.8:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 225 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1450 kg 1500 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 45 L