1985 Ford Taurus vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Taurus weights approximately 286 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Taurus | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
