1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 15 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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 345 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, 1996 Proton 400 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Proton |
| Model | Fiesta | 400 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
