1986 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 48 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 110 kg more than 1972 Opel Kadett.
Because 1972 Opel Kadett 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 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1986 Ford Escort (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1972 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1078 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 43 L |
