1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1991 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-3 (88 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 280 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.
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, 1991 Mazda MX-3 (133 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm). This means 1991 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1991 Mazda MX-3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Mazda MX-3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1991 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 88 HP |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2460 mm |
