2001 Acura RL vs. 1987 Ford Sierra

To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 470 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL, 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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Acura RL 1987 Ford Sierra
Make Acura Ford
Model RL Sierra
Year Released 2001 1987
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3472 cc 2303 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 205 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 304 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1675 kg 1205 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2920 mm 2620 mm