1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 31 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina.
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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cortina | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
