2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 272 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 76 L |
