1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 19 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 622 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.
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, 2008 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Altima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
