1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1977 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1977 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Plymouth Horizon (75 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Plymouth Horizon should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 114 kg more than 1977 Plymouth Horizon.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1977 Plymouth Horizon (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1977 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 1977 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Cortina | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2530 mm |
