1996 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1996 Ford Taurus is newer by 20 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 3,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Taurus (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Taurus weights approximately 483 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Taurus | 1976 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2540 mm |
