1965 Opel Kadett vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1965 Opel Kadett. (47 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1965 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 145 kg more than 1965 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Opel Kadett | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
