1981 Ford Escort vs. 1969 Ford Capri
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Capri (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Ford Capri weights approximately 21 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 1969 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 1969 Ford Capri. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Ford Capri (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1969 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Capri |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
