1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2000 Saturn SC
To start off, 2000 Saturn SC is newer by 19 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Saturn SC weights approximately 270 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, 2000 Saturn SC (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2000 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2000 Saturn SC 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. 2000 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2000 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Fiesta | SC |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
