2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fiesta (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
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, 2009 Ford Fiesta (128 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
