1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP) has 186 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 240 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 261 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
