1974 Ford Cortina vs. 2012 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2012 Opel Meriva is newer by 38 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Meriva (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1974 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Cortina.
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, 2012 Opel Meriva, 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, 2012 Opel Meriva (175 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Cortina | 2012 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
