1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | Z3 | Fiesta |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 957 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 39 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 64 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2300 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 34 L |