1996 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 24 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1972 Opel Kadett. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 410 kg more than 1972 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1972 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1078 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
