1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 391 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Fiesta | Cavalier |
Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 57 L |