1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1985 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1985 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 9 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Cortina (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1985 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1985 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 55 kg more than 1985 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 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, both vehicles can yield 117 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 1985 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Cortina | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2530 mm |
