1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 455 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
