2008 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Mustang weights approximately 1462 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Mustang | 1989 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Mustang | Taurus |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 434 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |