1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 343 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 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
