2001 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 1981 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 620 kg more than 1981 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus, 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, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus (231 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Cirrus | 1981 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Cirrus | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 54 L |
