1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2004 Nissan Frontier 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 3,278 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Frontier (210 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 1010 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 Nissan Frontier 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, 2004 Nissan Frontier 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, 2004 Nissan Frontier (318 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3278 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 73 L |
