1970 Ford Cortina vs. 1985 Ford Laser
To start off, 1985 Ford Laser is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Laser (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (44 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford Cortina weights approximately 38 kg more than 1985 Ford Laser.
Because 1970 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 1970 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Ford Laser (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Cortina. (73 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ford Cortina | 1985 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Laser |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
