2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 26 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 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 77 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 3273 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
