1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1976 Ford Taunus is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,294 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Taunus (106 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 355 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1976 Ford Taunus (177 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1976 Ford Taunus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Taunus | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Taunus | Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1131 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 77 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |