1981 Ford Capri vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1981 Ford Capri is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 49 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Capri weights approximately 15 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Wartburg 311, 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, 1963 Wartburg 311 (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1963 Wartburg 311 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Capri | 311 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
