2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1972 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1972 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 520 kg more than 1972 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Rekord 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 1972 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Rekord. 2003 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1972 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1972 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 1972 Opel Rekord | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Taurus | Rekord |
Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 120 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1065 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |