1961 BMW 700 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1961 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 245 kg more than 1961 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 BMW 700 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 1961 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 700. (52 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 700 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 700 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
