1985 Ford Orion vs. 1978 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1985 Ford Orion is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Orion (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Orion weights approximately 180 kg more than 1978 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Ford Orion (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Orion | 1978 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Orion | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 34 L |
