1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cortina | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
