1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1989 Plymouth Laser
To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser is newer by 13 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Cortina (101 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1989 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Plymouth Laser weights approximately 88 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina.
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, 1989 Plymouth Laser, 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, 1976 Ford Cortina (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 1989 Plymouth Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Cortina | Laser |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1755 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
