1977 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 31 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (123 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 222 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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (289 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Cortina | Focus |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
