1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Mazda 323 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 323 weights approximately 125 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, 2002 Mazda 323, 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, 2002 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cortina | 323 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
