2003 Acura TL vs. 1976 Ford Taunus

To start off, 2003 Acura TL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura TL (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura TL weights approximately 522 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL, 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, 2003 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura TL 1976 Ford Taunus
Make Acura Ford
Model TL Taunus
Year Released 2003 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 225 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 87.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 66 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1578 kg 1056 kg
Vehicle Length 4900 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2590 mm