1981 Ford Cortina vs. 2007 Renault Megane
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Megane weights approximately 430 kg more than 1981 Ford Cortina. 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, 2007 Renault Megane, 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, 2007 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 2007 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Cortina | Megane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
