1971 Austin 3 vs. 2005 Ford Taurus

To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 34 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 Ford Taurus.

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, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (251 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm). This means 2005 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 2005 Ford Taurus
Make Austin Ford
Model 3 Taurus
Year Released 1971 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2910 cc 2983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 123 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 218 Nm 251 Nm
Engine Bore Size 83.4 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.9 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.7:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1275 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 68 L