1998 Ferrari 355 Spider vs. 1980 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,494 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider (375 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider weights approximately 975 kg more than 1980 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider 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 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider (363 Nm) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm). This means 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider | 1980 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ford |
| Model | 355 Spider | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 34 L |
