1992 Ford Taurus vs. 1977 Ford Cortina

To start off, 1992 Ford Taurus is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (123 HP @ 3700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina.

Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Taurus, 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, 1977 Ford Cortina (289 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Taurus. (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1977 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Taurus.

Compare all specifications:

1992 Ford Taurus 1977 Ford Cortina
Make Ford Ford
Model Taurus Cortina
Year Released 1992 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 4093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3700 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 289 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2580 mm