1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 155 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Santana |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
