1980 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 445 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
