1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 353 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 1973 Datsun 240Z 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 1973 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1973 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Fiesta | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2300 mm |
