1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 677 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 Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2004 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 68 L |
