1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire
To start off, 1986 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire (130 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire weights approximately 533 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire 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 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fiesta | 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Fiesta | Starfire |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 130 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2470 mm |
