2003 Chrysler 300 vs. 1981 Ford Capri
To start off, 2003 Chrysler 300 is newer by 22 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler 300 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 410 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, 2003 Chrysler 300, 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 Chrysler 300 (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri. 2003 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler 300 | 1981 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Capri |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2734 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2570 mm |
