2006 Ford Fusion vs. 1981 Chrysler Avenger
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 272 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chrysler Avenger 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 1981 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. 1981 Chrysler Avenger has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chrysler Avenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 1981 Chrysler Avenger | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Fusion | Avenger |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2500 mm |
