1976 Opel Kadett vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40, 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Opel Kadett | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Kadett | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 68 L |
