1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2012 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa is newer by 36 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Versa (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 14 kg more than 2012 Nissan Versa.
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, 2012 Nissan Versa, 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, 2012 Nissan Versa (145 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 2012 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Cortina | Versa |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 1100 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 41 L |
