1977 Opel Kadett vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 638 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
