1981 Ford Capri vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (116 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 230 kg more 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, 2003 Vauxhall Signum, 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 Vauxhall Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Capri | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
