1982 Lancia Beta vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1982 Lancia Beta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lancia Beta (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lancia Beta weights approximately 205 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Lancia Beta, 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, 1982 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1982 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lancia Beta | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
