2012 Ford Fiesta vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 35 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1973 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta. 1973 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Ford Fiesta | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Fiesta | Centura |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1151 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4067 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1697 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2489 mm | 2680 mm |
