1973 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 MG ZR
To start off, 2008 MG ZR is newer by 35 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), 2008 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZR (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZR weights approximately 145 kg more than 1973 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 MG ZR, 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, 2008 MG ZR (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Cortina | 2008 MG ZR | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Cortina | ZR |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| 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 | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 50 L |
