1978 Ford Cortina vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 610 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Cortina | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cortina | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
