2003 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 508 kg more than 1974 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1974 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1974 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1974 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 43 L |
