1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 451 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Kadett | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
