1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2009 Kia Spectra

To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 33 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra 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, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Cortina 2009 Kia Spectra
Make Ford Kia
Model Cortina Spectra
Year Released 1976 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 1973 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 138 HP
Torque 91 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79.1 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 53 L