1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1965 Maserati Mistral
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 3,484 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Maserati Mistral (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Maserati Mistral weights approximately 440 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 1965 Maserati Mistral 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 1965 Maserati Mistral. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1965 Maserati Mistral (325 Nm) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm). This means 1965 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1965 Maserati Mistral | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Fiesta | Mistral |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3484 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
