1980 Ford Taunus vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 227 kg more than 1980 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Taunus. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Taunus | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
