2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1976 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 540 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber, 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 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1976 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Caliber | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 43 L |
