2003 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 18 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Opel Kadett weights approximately 28 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
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, 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 (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka 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:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| 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 | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 40 L |
