1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 590 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, 2003 Opel 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, 2003 Opel Astra (149 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1078 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
