1988 Citroen BX vs. 1981 Ford Capri

To start off, 1988 Citroen BX is newer by 7 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Citroen BX (90 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Citroen BX weights approximately 52 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1988 Citroen BX, 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, 1988 Citroen BX (181 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Citroen BX 1981 Ford Capri
Make Citroen Ford
Model BX Capri
Year Released 1988 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1749 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 70 HP
Torque 181 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 2100 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 87.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 66 mm
Top Speed 174 km/hour 164 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1062 kg 1010 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 58 L