2004 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 580 kg more than 1978 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (160 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1978 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1830 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 34 L |
