1970 Ford Cortina vs. 2004 Mazda 3

To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 280 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, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Cortina. (151 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Ford Cortina 2004 Mazda 3
Make Ford Mazda
Model Cortina 3
Year Released 1970 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 2260 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 97 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 203 Nm
Engine Bore Size 90.8 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77 mm 94 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1002 kg 1282 kg
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 87 L 55 L