1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 473 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1293 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
