2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 27 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 384 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3273 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
