1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 35 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 425 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, 2011 Audi A3, 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2011 Audi A3 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. 2011 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Cortina | A3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
