1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 690 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, 2005 Opel Vectra, 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
