1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 25 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 293 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. 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, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Taunus | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Taunus | Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 57 HP | 180 HP |
Torque | 92 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1313 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |