1973 Opel Kadett vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1979 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 60 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
