1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 428 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2007 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Cortina 2007 Volkswagen Passat
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Cortina Passat
Year Released 1976 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 113 HP
Torque 91 Nm 155 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79.1 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1000 kg 1428 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L