1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 26 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 999 cc (3 cylinders), 2009 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2009 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2009 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Fiesta | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 33 L |
