2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 1974 Rover 3.5. 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, 1974 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1974 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Taurus | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
