1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2005 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2005 Mercury Sable 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 2,964 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Sable (201 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Sable weights approximately 390 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 Sable, 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 Sable (281 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Sable 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 Sable | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Cortina | Sable |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
