1959 Holden FE vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1979 Opel Kadett is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Holden FE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Holden FE would be higher. At 2,166 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Holden FE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Opel Kadett (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1959 Holden FE. (60 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1959 Holden FE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Holden FE weights approximately 10 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Because 1959 Holden FE 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 Holden FE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1959 Holden FE (150 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1959 Holden FE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Holden FE | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | FE | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2166 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
