1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 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 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, 2002 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
