1981 Ford Cortina vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 28 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 2,361 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 355 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Cortina | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 2361 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
