1971 Ford Cortina vs. 2005 Renault Megane

To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 34 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1971 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 330 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, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Cortina. 2005 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1971 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Ford Cortina 2005 Renault Megane
Make Ford Renault
Model Cortina Megane
Year Released 1971 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 56 HP 111 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 Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 945 kg 1275 kg
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 60 L