2005 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 26 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), 2005 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ka weights approximately 301 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 42 L |
