1981 Ford Capri vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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. Both 1981 Ford Capri and 1996 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 1,593 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
