1976 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 29 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 458 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett. 2005 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1976 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1976 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Opel Kadett | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
