1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 201 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
