1976 Ford Capri vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Ford Capri. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 426 kg more than 1976 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Capri | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2712 mm |
