1987 Lada Samara vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Cortina (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (52 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Cortina weights approximately 185 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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. 1978 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 1987 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1987 Lada Samara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Lada | Ford |
| Model | Samara | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1100 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2580 mm |
