1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1999 Ford Econoline
To start off, 1999 Ford Econoline is newer by 18 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 6,801 cc (10 cylinders), 1999 Ford Econoline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Econoline (302 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Econoline should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Econoline weights approximately 1615 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 1999 Ford Econoline 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 1999 Ford Econoline. 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, 1999 Ford Econoline (569 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Econoline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1999 Ford Econoline | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Econoline |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 569 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 106 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 2415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 2060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3510 mm |
