1985 Opel Kadett vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1985 Opel Kadett is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Kadett (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Opel Kadett weights approximately 40 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Opel Kadett will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Kadett | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Kadett | 12 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2450 mm |
