2003 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Ford Capri

To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 554 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (176 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A8 1978 Ford Capri
Make Audi Ford
Model A8 Capri
Year Released 2003 1978
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2974 cc 2294 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 216 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 60.1 mm
Top Speed 242 km/hour 187 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.9 seconds 11.8 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1116 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 58 L