1962 Opel Kadett vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1962 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 531 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.
Because 1962 Opel Kadett 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 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Opel Kadett. (70 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Opel Kadett | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2510 mm |
