1981 Ford Capri vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 28 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 140 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Toyota Matrix 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. 2009 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Capri | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
