1971 Fiat 128 vs. 1981 Ford Capri

To start off, 1981 Ford Capri is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 128. (66 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 128. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Capri weights approximately 370 kg more than 1971 Fiat 128. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128, 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, 1981 Ford Capri (220 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 128. (90 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 128.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Fiat 128 1981 Ford Capri
Make Fiat Ford
Model 128 Capri
Year Released 1971 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1288 cc 2790 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 66 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 90 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 55.5 mm 68.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.9:1 9.2:1
Top Speed 150 km/hour 204 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 820 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 3890 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 59 L