1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 436 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 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Kadett | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
