1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2002 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2002 Ford Mondeo is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Mondeo (144 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 168 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, 2002 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2002 Ford Mondeo (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2002 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taunus | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
