1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Lancia Kappa 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lancia Kappa (201 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 695 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 Lancia Kappa, 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 Lancia Kappa (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Kappa | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
