1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 235 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 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Taunus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2580 mm |
