1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 20 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 361 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, 2009 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Ford Focus 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. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Fiesta 2009 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Fiesta Focus
Year Released 1989 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 138 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 185 km/hour 201 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 905 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2330 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L