2006 Renault Megane vs. 1978 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Cortina (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Cortina weights approximately 80 kg more than 2006 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 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 1978 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Renault Megane, 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, 2006 Renault Megane (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina. 1978 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 2006 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2006 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Renault Megane 1978 Ford Cortina
Make Renault Ford
Model Megane Cortina
Year Released 2006 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1461 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 86 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 185 Nm 141 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1030 kg 1110 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2580 mm