1979 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 825 kg more than 1979 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 76 L |
