1981 Ford Taunus vs. 2005 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2005 Ford Mondeo is newer by 24 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Mondeo (115 HP) has 58 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 372 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, 2005 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2005 Ford Mondeo (175 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 2005 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taunus | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
