2002 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Ford Capri
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 21 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 126 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, 2002 Ford Ka, 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1981 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Capri |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 58 L |
