1981 Ford Capri vs. 2003 MG ZT
To start off, 2003 MG ZT is newer by 22 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG ZT (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZT weights approximately 495 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, 2003 MG ZT, 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, 2003 MG ZT (215 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2003 MG ZT | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Capri | ZT |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
