1979 Ferrari 400 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,822 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ferrari 400 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 1979 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 400 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ford |
| Model | 400 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4822 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 118 L | 34 L |
