2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 560 kg more than 1980 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
