1977 Opel Kadett vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 34 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 694 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Kadett. 2011 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1977 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1977 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Opel Kadett | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Kadett | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
