1980 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Explorer weights approximately 257 kg more than 1980 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 85 L |
