1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 715 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2630 mm |
