1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 301 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Sierra | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Sierra | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2685 mm |
