1985 Opel Kadett vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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 1,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. 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, 2009 Opel Astra, 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, 2009 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Astra 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 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
