1973 Opel Kadett vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 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 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Polo (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Opel Kadett weights approximately 60 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 1984 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1984 Volkswagen Polo (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 40 L |
