1972 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 36 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.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Cortina. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Cortina | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Cortina | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 35 L |
