Measure For Measure: 2009 Honda Fit vs. 2010 Ford Fiesta - Specifications - Auto News

Standard engine for the new Fit will be a 118-hp version of the 1.5L four, driving the front wheels through either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Ford will offer a new 1.6L four with variable valve timing that produces about 115 hp. Too close to call -- until you check the weights. The new Fit is at least 22 lb heavier than the current car, which means a base manual is likely to check in at 2454 lb. Ford, by contrast, has reduced the weight of the new Fiesta hatch by 80 to 90 lb compared with the superceded model, which means a base manual will weigh about 2380 lb.

Manual transmission in the Fiesta is a five speed, but the auto is only a four speed -- for now. Ford is working on a dual clutch automated manual transmission for its front-drive small cars, though it is unlikely to appear before the Fiesta hits the U.S. market in 2010 as a 2011 model.

Honda has worked to improve the ride of the new Fit. "We are very aware that the predecessor was a little firm," says chief engineer Kohei Hitomi, "so we spent a lot of time fixing that." That's good news. But for the past decade, European Fords have consistently delivered a better ride/handling compromise, and better steering, than any small Honda, and there's no reason to expect that will change with the new Fiesta. Honda also habitually selects less-than-optimal tires for its cars, which invariably compromises grip. So unless Dearborn screws with the suspension or the tires, it would be surprising if the new Fiesta was not more engaging and entertaining to drive than the new Fit.

In this era of $4 a gallon gas, the hatch is a low-risk means of boosting the Fiesta's appeal in the U.S. market, offering an alternative for those who might want something slightly sportier than a small sedan. Besides, if Honda can prove the conventional wisdom wrong, why can't Ford? It's not rocket science.