1981 Ford Taunus vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1981 Ford Taunus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Taunus (57 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Taunus should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Taunus weights approximately 230 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1981 Ford Taunus (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Taunus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taunus | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
