2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1977 Opel Monza
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Monza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Monza 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 17 more horse power than 1977 Opel Monza. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Monza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 795 kg more than 1977 Opel Monza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Opel Monza 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 1977 Opel Monza. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Monza. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Monza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1977 Opel Monza | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Monza |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 43 L |
