2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 608 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1979 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1979 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 42 L |
