2001 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2001 Ford Ka is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Ka weights approximately 85 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Ka | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| 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 | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 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 |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |
