1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 790 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 Subaru Outback 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, 2006 Subaru Outback 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2006 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Fiesta | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 64 L |
