1981 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 27 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (141 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 87 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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taunus | Focus |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.1 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 | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
