2008 Citroen C3 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2008 Citroen C3 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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen C3 (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C3 weights approximately 185 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.

Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C3, 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 Citroen C3 (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Citroen C3 1979 Opel Kadett
Make Citroen Opel
Model C3 Kadett
Year Released 2008 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1360 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 118 Nm 81 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 3400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1005 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 3940 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1570 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 43 L