1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 866 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 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
