1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 635 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 1979 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 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Opel Kadett | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Kadett | S40 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 80 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 68 L |