1972 Opel Kadett vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1972 Opel Kadett. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 576 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Kadett | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1078 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
