1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2012 Scion xD

To start off, 2012 Scion xD 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion xD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion xD (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion xD should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion xD weights approximately 77 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, 2012 Scion xD, 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 Scion xD (169 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Scion xD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2012 Scion xD 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. 2012 Scion xD will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Cortina 2012 Scion xD
Make Ford Scion
Model Cortina xD
Year Released 1976 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1593 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 73 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 117 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1114 kg 1191 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 3929 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1725 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1509 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2461 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 42 L