2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Opel Kadett weights approximately 300 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21.
Because 2000 Caterham C21 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Opel Kadett, 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, 2000 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
