1981 Ford Cortina vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina.
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, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Cortina | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2390 mm |
