1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 32 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (332 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2008 Ford Taurus X 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. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2008 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 78 L |
