2003 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (309 HP) has 242 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 2009 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (358 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 309 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
