1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1948 Jensen Straight 8
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 (130 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jensen Straight 8 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 1948 Jensen Straight 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | |
| Make | Ford | Jensen |
| Model | Fiesta | Straight 8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1948 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 3860 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 86 L |
