1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 406 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | GTI |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
