1972 Ford Cortina vs. 1987 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1987 Opel Kadett is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Opel Kadett (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Cortina.
Because 1972 Ford Cortina 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 1972 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett, 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, 1987 Opel Kadett (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Cortina | 1987 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Cortina | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
