1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (75 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 560 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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
