2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1971 Opel Manta
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Manta would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 655 kg more than 1971 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Manta 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 1971 Opel Manta. 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 (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Manta. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1971 Opel Manta has manual transmission. 1971 Opel Manta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1971 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Manta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
