2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (260 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 1971 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
