1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 829 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Fairlane | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 2281 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
