1981 Ford Capri vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 520 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Capri | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
