1997 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett 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. 1997 Ford Ka weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Kadett. 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 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Ka | Kadett |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
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 | 2600 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 | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |