2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 371 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Cavalier | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 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 | 1191 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
