1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2003 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Octavia is newer by 27 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Octavia (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 315 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2003 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Ford | Skoda |
| Model | Taunus | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
