1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2010 Ford Ka
To start off, 2010 Ford Ka is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford Ka (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford Ka weights approximately 52 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2010 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Kadett | Ka |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 40 L |
