1998 Ford Escort vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Escort weights approximately 180 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Opel Kadett will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
