2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle 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 (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 146 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
