1972 Ford Cortina vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 1981 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Cortina (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Cortina weights approximately 194 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Ford Cortina (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Cortina | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cortina | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2370 mm |
