2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 845 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | DTS | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 43 L |
