1996 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 360 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, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
