1971 Austin 3 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 96 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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 (245 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
