1965 Ford Cortina vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1965 Ford Cortina. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1965 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 140 kg more than 1965 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour, 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. 2004 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1965 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1965 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Ford Cortina | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Cortina | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.1 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 47 L |
