1973 Opel Kadett vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1997 Skoda Octavia is newer by 24 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Skoda Octavia (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 520 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, 1997 Skoda Octavia, 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, 1997 Skoda Octavia (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 1997 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Kadett | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
