2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 247 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1986 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1986 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1071 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
