2008 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1976 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 32 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Optra (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 61 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, 2008 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Optra (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Optra | 1976 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Optra | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1114 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
