| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1976 |
| Production Years: | 1975 - 1979 discontinued in 1979 |
Precise measurements of the 1976 Ford Taunus, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Tire Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Rims Size: | 13 |
The Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) generation, produced from 1975 to 1979, represents a significant era in Ford's European sedan lineup. The 1976 model year exemplifies this generation with its classic mid-1970s styling and practical design. Built primarily as a sedan, the vehicle features a balanced combination of space and comfort aimed at family and business users alike. Its overall dimensions reflect the typical size characteristics of European sedans from this era, contributing to maneuverability in urban environments while still providing adequate interior room. The vehicle rides on 13-inch rims, which were standard for sedans of this period, offering reliable handling and ride comfort. Ford’s engineering for the Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) focused on maintaining a robust yet efficient platform, making it a vehicle that balanced performance with utility. While exact length, width, and height specifications for this specific generation can vary slightly, the Taunus sedans of these years generally offered competitive exterior dimensions for the mid-size category. This generation BMW Taunus is noted for its robust build quality, classic design cues and continued appeal among vintage car enthusiasts. Whether used as a daily sedan or a collector’s vehicle, the 1976 Ford Taunus of the GBTS, GBFS, and CBTS series remains a symbol of 1970s automotive design and German engineering excellence.
Discover the standout features that make the 1976 Ford Taunus a leader in its class
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The Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) sedan from 1975 to 1979 has a length of approximately 4380 mm (172.4 inches), a width of around 1690 mm (66.5 inches), and a height near 1380 mm (54.3 inches). These dimensions make it a mid-size sedan for its era, suitable for comfortable interior space and maneuverability in urban environments.
The curb weight of the Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) ranges between approximately 1000 kg and 1150 kg (2205 to 2535 lbs), depending on the variant and equipment level. This moderate weight helped balance performance and fuel economy, making it reasonably efficient for a sedan of the mid-1970s. The lighter weight supported nimble handling characteristics without sacrificing ride comfort.
The wheelbase of the 1976 Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) sedan is about 2535 mm (99.8 inches). A longer wheelbase like this generally enhances passenger comfort by providing more legroom, especially for rear-seat occupants. It also contributes to vehicle stability and smoother ride quality, which were important factors for family sedans of that time.
Yes, the 1976 Ford Taunus sedan fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. A typical standard garage measures around 6 meters (20 feet) in length, 3 meters (10 feet) in width, and 2.1 - 2.4 meters (7 - 8 feet) in height. With the Taunus being approximately 4.38 meters (14.4 feet) long and 1.69 meters (5.5 feet) wide, it leaves sufficient clearance for opening doors and maneuvering.
The Ford Taunus from this generation offers an interior width that comfortably accommodates up to five passengers, with moderate space in both front and rear seating rows. While exact interior width figures are not widely published, its exterior width of 1690 mm (66.5 inches) aligns with typical mid-size sedans of the 1970s. Compared to similar models like the Opel Ascona or Volkswagen Passat of the era, the Taunus provided competitive passenger space and a practical cabin layout.
The ground clearance of the 1976 Ford Taunus sedan typically ranged around 140 mm (5.5 inches), sufficient for European road conditions and occasional rural terrains without risking damage to the undercarriage. The minimum turning circle was approximately 10.5 meters (34.4 feet), making it reasonably agile for urban driving and parking relative to its size and era.
The 1976 Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) introduced a more modern, squared-off body design compared to its predecessor (the Taunus TC series from 1970-1975). Dimensionally, it maintained a similar length and width but was engineered with improved interior space efficiency and better aerodynamics. The newer generation offered enhanced passenger comfort, updated styling, and slightly better weight distribution, while continuing to appeal to mid-size sedan buyers.
In comparison to other mid-size European sedans from the mid to late 1970s, like the Opel Ascona B or Volkswagen Passat B1, the Ford Taunus had very competitive dimensions, with a length of about 4380 mm (172.4 inches) closely matching competitors. It distinguished itself with a spacious interior layout, reliable engine options, and solid build quality. While not the largest in its segment, it offered a balanced combination of size, practicality, and ease of driving.
The original 1976 Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) came equipped with 13-inch rims, which were standard for sedans of that time. These rims balance ride comfort and handling well. Using 13-inch rims ensures maintainance of proper suspension geometry and absorption characteristics. While modern upgrades are possible, sticking with 13-inch rims or equivalent tires is recommended for preserving driving dynamics and period-correct appearance.
The Ford Taunus (GBTS, GBFS, CBTS) came with a range of four-cylinder and V6 engines, generally between 1.3 to 2.3 liters displacement. Performance-oriented versions like the V6 variants delivered more power and smoother operation, appealing to buyers seeking enhanced driving dynamics. The engines were carbureted and designed for reliability and ease of maintenance, with performance typical of mid-1970s European family sedans, offering a blend of efficient cruising and adequate acceleration.
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