2009 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 36 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 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, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
