1979 Opel Kadett vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 325 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 75.6 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
