2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Ford Taurus. (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S80 weights approximately 330 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Taurus. (338 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2800 mm |
