2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus weights approximately 320 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3495 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2480 mm |
