1981 Ford Capri vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (127 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Capri weights approximately 50 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
