1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 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 2,324 cc, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 532 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2324 cc |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
