1978 Opel Kadett vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Opel Astra (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Astra weights approximately 285 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, 1994 Opel Astra, 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, 1994 Opel Astra (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1994 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
