2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus weights approximately 287 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Opel Kadett. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 43 L |
