1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (141 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 453 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 Saturn ION, 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 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Kadett | ION |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 50 L |
