2004 Ford Fusion vs. 1973 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2004 Ford Fusion 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Fusion (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fusion weights approximately 111 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 1973 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 1973 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Fusion, 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 Ford Fusion (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Fusion 1973 Ford Cortina
Make Ford Ford
Model Fusion Cortina
Year Released 2004 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1296 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 99 HP 56 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 91 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.4 mm 63 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 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 1151 kg 1040 kg
Vehicle Length 4020 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 87 L