1978 Austin Marina vs. 2005 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 84 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 1978 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Fiesta (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2005 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Marina | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 966 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
