2007 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2007 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 555 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | Xsara | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
