1986 Ford Sierra vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1986 Ford Sierra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Sierra (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Sierra weights approximately 156 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Sierra (216 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Sierra | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Sierra | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |
