2002 Ford Ka vs. 1970 Opel Olympia

To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Opel Olympia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Opel Olympia would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1970 Opel Olympia. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1970 Opel Olympia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 356 kg more than 1970 Opel Olympia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Opel Olympia 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 1970 Opel Olympia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Opel Olympia. (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Opel Olympia.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Ford Ka 1970 Opel Olympia
Make Ford Opel
Model Ka Olympia
Year Released 2002 1970
Body Type Roadster Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1078 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 135 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 83 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1136 kg 780 kg
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2420 mm