2001 Ford Taurus vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Ford Taurus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 139 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 695 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2001 Ford Taurus (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2001 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Taurus | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |