2008 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 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 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (127 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 BMW 318.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. 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 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
