1957 Ford 12 M vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Fiesta (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1957 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford 12 M weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1957 Ford 12 M 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 1957 Ford 12 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford 12 M | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | 12 M | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1380 mm |
