1974 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 499 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Chrysler Valiant 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 1974 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1974 Chrysler Valiant (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Valiant | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2330 mm |
