1986 Ford Capri vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Ford Capri is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Golf (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 Ford Capri. (72 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 175 kg more than 1986 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Capri. (119 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Capri | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Capri | Golf |
Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1591 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 119 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |