1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 458 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, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 52 L |
