1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1994 Ford Escort

To start off, 1994 Ford Escort is newer by 18 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Escort (88 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Escort weights approximately 95 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. 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, 1994 Ford Escort, 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, 1994 Ford Escort (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Cortina 1994 Ford Escort
Make Ford Ford
Model Cortina Escort
Year Released 1976 1994
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 1859 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 88 HP
Torque 91 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1000 kg 1095 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2510 mm