1980 Ford Capri vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1980 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Capri.
Because 1980 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 1980 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Capri | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Capri | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2639 mm |
