1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 1997 Acura RL is newer by 16 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 875 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1997 Acura RL 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. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Acura RL | |
Make | Ford | Acura |
Model | Fiesta | RL |
Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2920 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |