2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Iltis 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) has 79 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 283 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis 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 | 1980 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2110 mm |
