2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1053 kg more than 1974 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
