1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Dodge Challenger (156 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 645 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Dodge Challenger 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 1969 Dodge Challenger. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Dodge Challenger (352 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1969 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 34 L |
