1978 Ford Capri vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1978 Ford Capri is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Capri (53 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Capri weights approximately 290 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1978 Ford Capri (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Capri | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 59 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
