1981 Ford Taunus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 436 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Taunus | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Taunus | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 57 HP | 120 HP |
Torque | 92 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1456 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |