2009 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (220 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1988 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 45 L |
