2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 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 42 more horse power than 1989 Toyota MR2. (221 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 133 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota MR2. (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota MR2. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1989 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1989 Toyota MR2 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 | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Taurus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 55 L |
