1970 Ford Capri vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Ford Capri (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford Capri weights approximately 188 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Ford Capri 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 1970 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1970 Ford Capri (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ford Capri | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1103 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |
