2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 587 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
