1979 Ford Cortina vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Ford Cortina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Cortina.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Cortina | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Cortina | Civic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
