1981 Ford Capri vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 129 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm). This means 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Capri | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Capri | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1994 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 115 HP |
Torque | 117 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |