1999 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 360 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Astra | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
