1981 Ford Taunus vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (175 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 665 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace, 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, 2002 Renault Espace (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | Espace |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
