2001 Ford Taurus vs. 1961 Ford Popular
To start off, 2001 Ford Taurus is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Taurus (201 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 775 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Popular 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 1961 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus, 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. 2001 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1961 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1961 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Taurus | 1961 Ford Popular | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Popular |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
