2009 Acura RDX vs. 1981 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2009 Acura RDX is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RDX (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RDX weights approximately 784 kg more than 1981 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RDX 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, 2009 Acura RDX (260 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina. 2009 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Acura RDX 1981 Ford Cortina
Make Acura Ford
Model RDX Cortina
Year Released 2009 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2297 cc 1293 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 237 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 260 Nm 92 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1784 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1660 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 54 L