1977 Opel Kadett vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 80 kg more than 1977 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Opel Kadett | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2410 mm |
