1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus.
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, 2011 Volkswagen 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |
