1974 Ford Capri vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Capri (54 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Ford Capri weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1974 Ford Capri (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Ford Capri | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Capri | Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 43 HP |
Torque | 91 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |