1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 593 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
