1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Dodge Challenger (241 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 180 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger.
Because 1972 Dodge Challenger 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 1972 Dodge Challenger. 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, 1972 Dodge Challenger (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2730 mm |
