1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 718 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 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (411 Nm) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 411 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 59 L |
