2005 Ford Taurus vs. 1976 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (201 HP) has 147 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 505 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus, 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2005 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 1976 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
