1971 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1981 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1981 Ford Cortina is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette (330 HP) has 271 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Corvette | 1981 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Corvette | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2590 mm |
