2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1961 Ford Taunus
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1961 Ford Taunus. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 785 kg more than 1961 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Taunus 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 1961 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Taunus. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1961 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Taunus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 50 L |
