1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2009 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2009 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 30 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (142 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 505 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4, 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2009 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Opel | Suzuki |
| Model | Kadett | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 50 L |
