1984 Lancia Beta vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1984 Lancia Beta is newer by 11 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Beta (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Beta weights approximately 246 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, 1984 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, 1984 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lancia Beta | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 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 Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 43 L |
