1980 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 473 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Hyundai Elantra (235 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Fiesta | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
