1981 Fiat Panda vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (75 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 125 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Panda | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 74 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2450 mm |
