1986 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1986 BMW 325 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1986 BMW 325 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW 325 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 325 | Fiesta |
Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 957 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 39 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 64 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2300 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 34 L |