2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Ford Mustang. (188 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 333 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus X | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
