1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 600 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 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2002 BMW Z3 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. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Fiesta | Z3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 51 L |