1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 750 kg more than 1980 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, 1997 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1980 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1980 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Riviera | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
