1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Rover 45
To start off, 2004 Rover 45 is newer by 31 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Rover 45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Rover 45 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Rover 45 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Rover 45 weights approximately 375 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, 2004 Rover 45, 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, 2004 Rover 45 (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Rover 45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2004 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Opel | Rover |
| Model | Kadett | 45 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1078 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
