1971 Opel Kadett vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1971 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 605 kg more than 1971 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Opel Kadett | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Kadett | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 48 L |
