1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 695 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
