1970 Ford Cortina vs. 2001 Smart ForFour

To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 31 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 1,124 cc (3 cylinders), 2001 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (44 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForFour weights approximately 105 kg more than 1970 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2001 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Smart ForFour (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Cortina. (73 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Cortina.

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