1971 Austin 3 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 38 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (259 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 524 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2009 Ford Taurus X, 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, 2009 Ford Taurus X (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2009 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 259 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
