1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2010 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2010 Ford Mustang is newer by 29 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford Mustang (315 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford Mustang weights approximately 883 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 2010 Ford Mustang 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 2010 Ford Mustang. 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, 2010 Ford Mustang (440 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2010 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1603 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 61 L |
