1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1978 Ford Cortina is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Cortina weights approximately 20 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 342 America.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1978 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 1953 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1953 Ferrari 342 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ford |
| Model | 342 America | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
