1981 Ford Capri vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 435 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Capri. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
