1977 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Meriva (123 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1977 Ford Taunus. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 235 kg more than 1977 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Meriva, 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 Meriva (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Taunus | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taunus | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 94 L | 53 L |
