1997 Ford Ka vs. 1982 Opel Manta
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Opel Manta (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Manta weights approximately 116 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Opel Manta 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 1982 Opel Manta. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Manta. (98 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1982 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Manta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2640 mm |
