2004 Audi A4 vs. 1972 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1972 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1972 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A4 1972 Ford Cortina
Make Audi Ford
Model A4 Cortina
Year Released 2004 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 1298 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 56 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 225 Nm 91 Nm
Torque RPM 1950 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 63 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1335 kg 1044 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 87 L