| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1971 |
| Production Years: | 1970 - 1976 discontinued in 1976 |
The Ford Taunus (GBTK), produced between 1970 and 1976, is a classic mid-size sedan that represents Ford's European lineup of the early 1970s. Launched as a 1971 model, the Taunus GBTK generation combined contemporary styling, practical dimensions, and solid engineering aimed at the family sedan market. The sedan's design reflects the era's emphasis on balanced size and comfort, suitable for everyday driving as well as longer journeys. While exact exterior dimensions may vary slightly depending on specific configurations, the Taunus GBTK is typically characterized by its moderate length and width, providing ample interior space without the bulk of larger vehicles of the period. The length generally falls around 4.5 meters (~177 inches), while the width measures approximately 1.7 meters (~67 inches), making it competitive in a segment favoring maneuverability in European urban environments. Its height ensures comfortable headroom and a commanding driving position, and the overall weight supports steady handling dynamics. The Ford Taunus GBTK's size makes it an excellent example of a 1970s sedan that balances passenger comfort with drivability. This generation continued Ford's tradition of producing reliable and practical vehicles that catered well to families and individuals seeking a classic sedan experience during the early 1970s. Whether viewed through a historical lens or for enthusiasts interested in vintage cars, the Taunus GBTK remains a notable model for its era and segment.
Discover the standout features that make the 1971 Ford Taunus a leader in its class
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The 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) sedan has a length of approximately 4,590 mm (180.7 inches), a width of around 1,720 mm (67.7 inches), and a height close to 1,410 mm (55.5 inches). These dimensions position the Taunus as a mid-size sedan of its era, providing a balanced footprint that offers both manageable urban driving and spaciousness inside. The length contributes to comfortable interior space for passengers and adequate trunk capacity, while the width and height help maintain a stable and streamlined profile on the road.
The curb weight of the 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) sedan is approximately 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs). This moderate weight for a mid-size sedan of the early 1970s strikes a balance between robustness and agility. The car's weight plays a vital role in its handling characteristics; it provides enough mass to ensure stability on highways and during maneuvers without making the vehicle feel cumbersome. Moreover, the relatively lightweight frame positively affects fuel efficiency and acceleration.
The 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) sedan is designed to comfortably seat five passengers, featuring two front bucket seats and a rear bench seat. Legroom and headroom were optimized for mid-size sedans of that era, offering ample space for adults in both the front and rear rows. The overall interior dimensions provide a pleasant travel experience, with adequate comfort for medium to long journeys. The thoughtfully laid-out cabin also includes sufficient shoulder room, making it practical for families or individuals requiring a spacious yet compact vehicle.
Yes, the 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Typical single-car garage doors have a width of about 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) and a height of approximately 2,130 mm (84 inches). Given the Taunus' width of 1,720 mm (67.7 inches) and height of 1,410 mm (55.5 inches), it leaves ample clearance on the sides and above. This makes parking convenient and limits the risk of damage when maneuvering the vehicle in and out of most standard garages.
Compared to its predecessor, the 1967–1970 Taunus TC model, the 1971 Taunus (GBTK) features subtle dimension changes that enhance practicality and modern appeal. While both generations occupy the mid-size segment, the GBTK iteration tends to be marginally longer with a slightly wider body, providing improved interior space for passengers and luggage. The updated styling and moderate dimension increases contributed to a more contemporary and spacious feel while still maintaining the trusted driving dynamics familiar to fans of the earlier generation.
When compared to similar mid-size sedans of the early 1970s, such as the Opel Rekord or the Volkswagen Passat, the 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) falls within a comparable size range. Its length of 4,590 mm (180.7 inches) and width of 1,720 mm (67.7 inches) align closely with competitors, offering competitive interior space and road presence. However, some rivals might feature slightly more compact or aerodynamic designs, while the Taunus focuses on a balanced blend of spaciousness and traditional styling. This size balance helped it appeal to customers desiring reliability and comfort without excessive bulk.
The trunk capacity of the 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) sedan is approximately 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet). This volume is quite generous for a mid-size sedan from the early 1970s, allowing owners to carry luggage, groceries, or other cargo with ease. The trunk design also accounts for the flexibility of cargo space, making it practical for daily use or longer trips. The shape and accessibility of the trunk opening facilitate easy loading and unloading, further enhancing the car’s usability.
The 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) has an estimated ground clearance of around 160 mm (6.3 inches) and a wheelbase of roughly 2,620 mm (103.1 inches). The ground clearance is sufficient for smooth handling of various road surfaces while protecting the undercarriage from minor obstacles. The relatively long wheelbase contributes to a stable and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and providing better straight-line stability. Together, these dimensions balance both sporty driving feel and everyday comfort, which were important considerations in sedan design during that period.
The 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK), depending on engine choice, typically offers fuel consumption figures in the range of approximately 10 to 12 liters per 100 km (23.5 to 19.6 mpg US). For a mid-size sedan of the early 1970s, this fuel efficiency was average to slightly above average, balancing engine performance with economical operation. Competitors in the same segment showed similar fuel consumption, with some smaller or more lightweight models doing marginally better. The Taunus’ reputation included reliability and fuel economy that suited family and daily driving needs.
The 1971 Ford Taunus (GBTK) sedan came with several engine variants, ranging mostly from 1.3-liter to 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engines. These powerplants produced between approximately 60 to 115 horsepower, depending on the specific version and tuning. Performance was tuned for smoothness and reliability rather than outright speed, with moderate acceleration suited to family and commuter driving. The engines were known for their robustness, ease of maintenance, and balanced fuel consumption. The Taunus offered a practical performance profile for its time.
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