1986 Ford Sierra vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1986 Ford Sierra 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Sierra (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Sierra weights approximately 466 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 Ford Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Sierra (216 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Sierra | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Sierra | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 166 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 34 L |
