2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1996 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (350 HP) has 87 more horse power than 2008 Ford Taurus. (263 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Mustang. 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (556 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Taurus. (338 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Taurus. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Mustang 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 1996 Ford Mustang
Make Ford Ford
Model Taurus Mustang
Year Released 2008 1996
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3495 cc 4601 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 263 HP 350 HP
Torque 338 Nm 556 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 1345 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1570 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2870 mm 2580 mm


 

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