1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1985 Opel Kadett is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Kadett (75 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Opel Kadett weights approximately 413 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett, 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, 1985 Opel Kadett (101 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 478 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 166 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
