1979 Opel Kadett vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 480 (108 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 480 weights approximately 165 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Volvo 480 (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Kadett | 480 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |
