1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1987 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1987 Ford Fiesta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 957 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 44 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 101 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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. Let's talk about torque, 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1987 Ford Fiesta | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
Model | Sprite | Fiesta |
Year Released | 1958 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 957 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 68 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 765 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 3650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2300 mm |