1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 25 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2006 BMW 530 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 2006 BMW 530. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2006 BMW 530 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. 2006 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Fiesta | 530 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |
