1978 Opel Kadett vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 4 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Austin Ambassador (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 395 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, 1982 Austin Ambassador, 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, 1982 Austin Ambassador (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett. 1982 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Opel Kadett | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
Make | Opel | Austin |
Model | Kadett | Ambassador |
Year Released | 1978 | 1982 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 80 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |