1979 Opel Kadett vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 1979 Opel Kadett is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 264 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 264 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 621 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 Volvo 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1978 Volvo 264 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 264 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Kadett | 264 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
