1977 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima 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 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina.
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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (245 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Cortina | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Cortina | Altima |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
