1996 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Opel Rekord (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Rekord weights approximately 182 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka, 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, both vehicles can yield 105 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
