1978 Ford Fiesta vs. 1971 Triumph 1500
To start off, 1978 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Triumph 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Triumph 1500 would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Triumph 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Triumph 1500 (60 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Triumph 1500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Triumph 1500 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Triumph 1500 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 Triumph 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1971 Triumph 1500 (110 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1971 Triumph 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Fiesta | 1971 Triumph 1500 | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Fiesta | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 63 L |
