1998 Opel Meriva vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva 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 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 603 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 Opel Meriva, 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 Meriva (185 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Meriva | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Meriva | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1685 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 43 L |
