1981 Ford Capri vs. 1994 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen Polo (75 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen Polo 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, 1994 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Polo (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
