1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 166 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Ford Focus (132 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Focus |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
