1975 Opel Kadett vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1975 Opel Kadett. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 120 kg more than 1975 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Opel Kadett | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Passat |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
