1981 Ford Capri vs. 2007 Kia Optima

To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 26 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, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima 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, 2007 Kia Optima, 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Capri 2007 Kia Optima
Make Ford Kia
Model Capri Optima
Year Released 1981 2007
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2792 cc 2359 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 59 L 62 L


 

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