1974 Opel Kadett vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 32 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 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 440 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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1974 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1974 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Kadett | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 991 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
