1997 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka 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. 1973 Opel Ascona weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka.
Because 1973 Opel Ascona 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 1973 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2440 mm |
