1972 Ford Capri vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Capri (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Capri weights approximately 205 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1989 Volkswagen Polo (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Capri. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Capri | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1305 cc | 1041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2340 mm |
