1988 Ford Fiesta vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1988 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (59 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 197 kg more than 1988 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Fiesta | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Santana |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 768 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2560 mm |
