2003 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 25 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 116 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 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 | 906 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |
