1977 Opel Kadett vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 368 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Opel Kadett | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
