1989 Lancia Thema vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1989 Lancia Thema is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Thema weights approximately 245 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lancia Thema (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lancia Thema | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Thema | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 42 L |
