1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 284 kg more 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 Jetta, 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 Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cortina | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
