1981 Ford Capri vs. 1988 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1988 Ford Meteor is newer by 7 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Meteor (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri.
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, 1988 Ford Meteor, 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, 1988 Ford Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 1988 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Capri | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
