2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona 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 182 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 93 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |
