1973 Opel Kadett vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 586 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
