1973 Fiat 124 vs. 1987 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1987 Opel Kadett is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Opel Kadett (129 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Kadett weights approximately 44 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 124 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 1973 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett, 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, 1987 Opel Kadett (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1987 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 1987 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 974 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 75 L |
