2002 Toyota Camry vs. 1981 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2002 Toyota Camry is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota Camry (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Celica. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Camry should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Camry weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Camry, 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 Toyota Camry (279 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Celica. (172 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota Camry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Celica. 2002 Toyota Camry has automatic transmission and 1981 Toyota Celica has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Celica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Toyota Camry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Toyota Camry | 1981 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Camry | Celica |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1165 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
