1972 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1972 Opel Kadett. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 704 kg more than 1972 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Kadett | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1078 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
