2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 683 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (281 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
