1981 Ford Capri vs. 1996 Ford Escort

To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort.

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, 1996 Ford Escort, 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, 1981 Ford Capri (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Capri 1996 Ford Escort
Make Ford Ford
Model Capri Escort
Year Released 1981 1996
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2792 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 2750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1400 mm