1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix (200 HP) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 833 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 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fiesta | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 64 L |
