1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2013 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2013 Cadillac CTS is newer by 32 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Cadillac CTS (314 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 1057 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 2013 Cadillac CTS 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 2013 Cadillac CTS. 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, 2013 Cadillac CTS (373 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2013 Cadillac CTS 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. 2013 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2013 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Ford | Cadillac |
| Model | Fiesta | CTS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 314 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1857 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 68 L |
