1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 647 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 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Kadett | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1467 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
