1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Ford Galaxy
To start off, 2004 Ford Galaxy is newer by 23 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Galaxy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Galaxy (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Galaxy should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 941 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, 2004 Ford Galaxy (326 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Galaxy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2004 Ford Galaxy 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. 2004 Ford Galaxy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Ford Galaxy | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Galaxy |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1741 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |
