1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 32 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 400 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, 2008 Opel Astra, 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, 2008 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Taunus | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Taunus | Astra |
Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1909 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 260 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |