1974 Ford Capri vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 155 kg more than 1974 Ford Capri. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Capri. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Capri | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
