1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 789 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (281 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | Sprite | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 68 L |
