1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1999 Lexus RX
To start off, 1999 Lexus RX 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus RX (220 HP) has 137 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus RX weights approximately 1630 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 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX. 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 Lexus RX (301 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1999 Lexus RX 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. 1999 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1999 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Fiesta | RX |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2630 mm |
