1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2480 mm |
