1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2004 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Maxima is newer by 28 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 440 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, 2004 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2004 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 2004 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2004 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Taunus | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2830 mm |
