1970 Ford Cortina vs. 2005 Ford Focus

To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 35 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (44 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 311 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, 2005 Ford Focus, 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, 2005 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Cortina. (73 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Ford Cortina 2005 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Cortina Focus
Year Released 1970 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1098 cc 1594 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 44 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 73 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 860 kg 1171 kg
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2710 mm