1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,997 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 237 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 5997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
