1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe (140 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 826 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 Hyundai Santa Fe (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Fiesta | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1546 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 45 L |
