1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2011 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Optra 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Optra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 97 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 Chevrolet Optra, 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 Optra (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Optra 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 Optra | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cortina | Optra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
