2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 188 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus X | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
