1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 569 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Altima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
