1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 690 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 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2002 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Fiesta | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 64 L |
