1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 29 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (201 HP) has 111 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 385 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Cortina | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
