1977 Ford Cortina vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 26 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, 2003 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 385 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, 2003 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Signum |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
