2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1973 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 353 kg more than 1973 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1973 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
