1971 Ford Cortina vs. 1997 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1997 Mercury Villager is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1971 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Villager weights approximately 760 kg more than 1971 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Cortina | 1997 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Cortina | Villager |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2860 mm |
