1986 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1986 Opel Kadett. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 318 kg more than 1986 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Kadett. (178 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Opel Kadett | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
