1974 Opel Kadett vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 38 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (47 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett.
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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett. 2012 Honda Civic 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. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Kadett | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Opel | Honda |
| Model | Kadett | Civic |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 991 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
