1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (101 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cortina | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
