1962 Opel Kadett vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1971 Opel Rekord is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Opel Rekord (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1962 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1962 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Rekord weights approximately 390 kg more than 1962 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1971 Opel Rekord (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Opel Kadett. (70 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Opel Kadett | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2670 mm |
