2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fiesta (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 8 kg more than 2009 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Ford Fiesta (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1137 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
