2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1988 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 291 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 Dodge Nitro 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 Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Taurus. (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 1988 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Nitro | Taurus |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |