2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Fiesta (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2005 Ford Fiesta (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
