1980 Ford Taunus vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1980 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 445 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Taunus. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Taunus | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
