1996 Opel Vectra vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 515 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Vectra | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
