1974 AMC Matador vs. 1987 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1987 Opel Kadett is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AMC Matador would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AMC Matador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1987 Opel Kadett. (129 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1987 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 818 kg more than 1987 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 AMC Matador 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 1974 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Opel Kadett, 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, 1974 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Kadett. (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Kadett. 1974 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1987 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1987 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AMC Matador | 1987 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | AMC | Opel |
| Model | Matador | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 974 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 75 L |
