2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1976 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
