2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1986 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1986 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1986 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 785 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 1986 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 338 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1986 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1986 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1986 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Taurus | Astro |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2830 mm |
