2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 2004 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 6,059 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (419 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 106 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 2009 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (420 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Challenger has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Challenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Dodge Challenger 2004 Ford Taurus
Make Dodge Ford
Model Challenger Taurus
Year Released 2009 2004
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6059 cc 2967 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 419 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 251 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3950 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1691 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1930 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 11.2 L/100km 10.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 72 L 68 L