1981 Ford Fairlane vs. 2006 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (221 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Fairlane 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 1981 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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, 1981 Ford Fairlane (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fusion. (278 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fusion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fairlane | 2006 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fairlane | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
