1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2009 Ford Mondeo 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mondeo (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 730 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 Mondeo (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Mondeo 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 Mondeo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 59 L |
