2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 159 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1078 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 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 | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
