1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2003 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP) has 246 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Jensen SV-8 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 2003 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2003 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Jensen |
| Model | Fiesta | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 321 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
