1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 24 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 652 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 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 76 L |
