1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Neon is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 289 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon, 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, 1998 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Neon | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | Neon | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2400 mm |
