1989 Ford Escort vs. 1971 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 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. 1989 Ford Escort weights approximately 170 kg more than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Ford Escort (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1971 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
