1980 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2004 Ford Fiesta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW 316 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Ford Fiesta. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 35 kg more than 1980 BMW 316.
Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 124 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 316 | 2004 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 166 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |
