1973 Ford Cortina vs. 2004 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina.
Because 1973 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 1973 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Neon, 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, 2004 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina. 2004 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1973 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1973 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Cortina | 2004 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Cortina | Neon |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2650 mm |
