1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai 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 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 295 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 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Opel Kadett. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Samurai (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Opel | Suzuki |
| Model | Kadett | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
