1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 30 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 810 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 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2011 BMW Z4 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. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Fiesta | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
