2003 Acura TL vs. 1979 Ford Taunus

To start off, 2003 Acura TL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 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) has 168 more horse power than 1979 Ford Taunus. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura TL weights approximately 558 kg more than 1979 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 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 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Taunus. 2003 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1979 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1979 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura TL 1979 Ford Taunus
Make Acura Ford
Model TL Taunus
Year Released 2003 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 1293 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 225 HP 57 HP
Torque 294 Nm 92 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 66 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1578 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 4900 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2580 mm