1981 Ford Cortina vs. 1976 Renault 14
To start off, 1981 Ford Cortina is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,293 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Cortina (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1976 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Cortina weights approximately 135 kg more than 1976 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Renault 14, 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, both vehicles can yield 92 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 1976 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Cortina | 14 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| 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 Weight | 1000 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 48 L |
