1981 Ford Capri vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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 77 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1117 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1981 Ford Capri (220 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
