1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 1976 Ford Cortina

To start off, 1986 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Fiesta (75 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 314 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta.

Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1976 Ford Cortina (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Fiesta 1976 Ford Cortina
Make Ford Ford
Model Fiesta Cortina
Year Released 1986 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1392 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 73 HP
Torque 111 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 800 kg 1114 kg
Vehicle Length 3650 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2590 mm