1977 Ford Cortina vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra, 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, 2002 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina. 2002 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Cortina | Astra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
