1974 Ford Cortina vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1974 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 400 kg more than 1974 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Cortina | 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cortina | B |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
