1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 40 L |
