2002 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 21 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 750 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 2002 BMW 318 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 2002 BMW 318. 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, 2002 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 34 L |
