1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 21 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 150 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, 1997 Opel Astra, 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, 1997 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Cortina | 1997 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Cortina | Astra |
Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 89 HP |
Torque | 91 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |