1978 Opel Kadett vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 538 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Kadett | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 90 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1358 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |