1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II vs. 1982 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1982 Opel Kadett is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1982 Opel Kadett. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II weights approximately 178 kg more than 1982 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II 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 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II (167 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Kadett. (94 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II | 1982 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Opel |
| Model | 3000 Mk II | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
