2004 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 536 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
