1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Challenger (305 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 1013 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 Dodge Challenger (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2012 Dodge Challenger has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Fiesta | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1739 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2946 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 72 L |
