1985 Opel Kadett vs. 1987 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Kadett (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 56 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett.
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, 1987 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1987 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Kadett | 1987 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 774 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
