1979 Austin Marina vs. 2011 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Taurus weights approximately 941 kg more than 1979 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Austin Marina 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 1979 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina. 2011 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1979 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1979 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Austin Marina | 2011 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Austin | Ford |
Model | Marina | Taurus |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1274 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 337 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1821 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 5154 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2868 mm |