2009 BMW 325 vs. 1976 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 33 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 501 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 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Cortina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 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 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 325 1976 Ford Cortina
Make BMW Ford
Model 325 Cortina
Year Released 2009 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 9.2:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 1114 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 54 L