1981 Ford Taunus vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 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 2,920 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (268 HP) has 211 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus.
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, 2006 Volvo S80, 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, 2006 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taunus | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
