1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 35 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 845 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 2011 Dodge Dakota 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 2011 Dodge Dakota 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. 2011 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Taunus | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 3340 mm |
