1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cortina | GTI |
| 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 | 73 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
