1981 Ford Escort vs. 1956 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 2,473 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Opel Kapitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Opel Kapitan (74 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Opel Kapitan should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Opel Kapitan weights approximately 261 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Opel Kapitan 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 1956 Opel Kapitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1956 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2760 mm |
