1968 Opel Kadett vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1968 Opel Kadett. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 578 kg more than 1968 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Opel Kadett. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Opel Kadett | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1078 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 755 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
