1981 Ford Capri vs. 1998 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 17 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri. 1998 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 1998 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Capri | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
