1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 20 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 325 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Ford Taurus 2008 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Taurus Focus
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2985 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 81.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 11.0:1
Top Speed 225 km/hour 185 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 2000 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 55 L