1963 Ford Cortina vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1978 Nissan Cherry is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Ford Cortina (106 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Ford Cortina weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Ford Cortina is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1963 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 1963 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1963 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Ford Cortina | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Cortina | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
