2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 28 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 34 L |
