1971 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP) has 210 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 846 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 263 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 72 L |
