1971 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Fiesta (120 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 194 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 1971 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1169 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4409 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
