1983 Lancia Beta vs. 1982 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1983 Lancia Beta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Lancia Beta (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1982 Opel Kadett. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Lancia Beta weights approximately 64 kg more than 1982 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Lancia Beta 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 1983 Lancia Beta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Kadett, 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, 1983 Lancia Beta (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Kadett. (94 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1983 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lancia Beta | 1982 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
