2009 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 516 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2009 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 34 L |
