1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1962 Ford Popular
To start off, 1972 Ford Gran Torino is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Popular would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1962 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 1284 kg more than 1962 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 1962 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1962 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1962 Ford Popular | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Gran Torino | Popular |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6553 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
