Ford Taunus 12M P4
The first front-wheel drive Ford, originally developed as the 'Cardinal' to fight the Volkswagen Beetle.
- Power
- 40 bhp
- Top speed
- 76 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$10k
About the Ford Taunus 12M P4
The Ford Taunus 12M P4 was a landmark engineering shift for Ford of Germany, introducing front-wheel drive and a compact V4 engine. Originally conceived in the United States as the 'Project Cardinal' to compete with the VW Beetle, the project was transferred to Cologne to better suit European tastes. Its 60-degree V4 engine was innovative for the time, featuring a balance shaft to reduce vibrations inherent in the design. While it lacked the sporting pretensions of later Fords, the P4 was praised for its interior space and robust mechanicals.
Ford Taunus 12M P4 specs
The Ford Taunus 12M P4 produces 40 bhp (30 kW) and 78 Nm (58 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 76 mph (123 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Taunus 12M |
| Generation | P4 |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1962–1966 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.2-litre V4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,183 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 40 bhp (30 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 78 Nm (58 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 76 mph (123 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 860 kg (1,896 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 47 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Taunus 12M P4 worth?
A typical Ford Taunus 12M P4 is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $9,500 (about £2,600 – £7,100).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Taunus 12M P4 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Taunus 12M P4 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Taunus 12M P4 fun facts
- The 1.2-litre V4 engine developed for this car was later used by Saab in the 95, 96, and Sonett models.
- In 1963, a Taunus 12M set 144 international speed records during a 358,000-kilometre endurance test at the Miramas circuit.
- The P4 was the first Ford to feature a maintenance-free cooling system, sealed at the factory.
