1974 Holden Statesman vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1979 Opel Kadett is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Statesman (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Statesman weights approximately 545 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Holden Statesman (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Statesman | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Statesman | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3297 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2530 mm |
