1980 Ford Taunus vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia is newer by 24 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Skoda Octavia (101 HP) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 310 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Taunus. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Taunus | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Ford | Skoda |
| Model | Taunus | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
