1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 3,174 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 590 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 Vectra, 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 Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taunus | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
