1971 Ford Cortina vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 32 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1971 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 270 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Cortina | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Cortina | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
