1978 Opel Kadett vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1981 Opel Ascona is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Opel Ascona (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Opel Ascona weights approximately 100 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Opel Ascona (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
