2003 Saturn L vs. 1978 Ford Capri
To start off, 2003 Saturn L 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (87 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 295 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 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri. 1978 Ford Capri has automatic transmission and 2003 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2003 Saturn L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Capri will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saturn L | 1978 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Saturn | Ford |
| Model | L | Capri |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
