1991 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,512 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 137 kg more than 1991 Ford Taurus. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Taurus | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2512 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2712 mm |
