1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 236 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, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Astra (170 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 58 L |
