1959 Fiat 1200 vs. 1983 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1983 Opel Kadett is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Kadett (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1200. (53 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Kadett weights approximately 65 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 1200 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 1959 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Opel Kadett (148 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1200. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fiat 1200 | 1983 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 40 L |
