1981 Ford Capri vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 221 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
