2005 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Opel Kadett. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ka weights approximately 381 kg more than 1971 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (74 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1971 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1077 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
