1998 Opel Astra vs. 1971 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 530 kg more than 1971 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1971 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 40 L |
