2008 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 840 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 2005 Ford Explorer 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 2005 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Explorer 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 | 2005 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2840 mm |
