1974 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,194 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart ForFour weights approximately 145 kg more than 1974 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour, 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, 2005 Smart ForFour (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Kadett | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Kadett | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 47 L |
