1978 Opel Kadett vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1978 Opel Kadett is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Opel Kadett | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Opel | Renault |
Model | Kadett | 12 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 992 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 47 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |