1980 Opel Kadett vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 235 kg more than 1980 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Kadett | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
