2009 Ford Taurus vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 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 166 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 323 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 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 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3700 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 | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
