Opel Kadett E 1.6 S (90 Hp)
Overall Rating
Opel Kadett:
The Opel Kadett is a small family car produced by the German automobile manufacturer Opel from 1936 until 1940 and then from 1962 until 1991 , when it was succeeded by the Opel Astra.
Originally, the Kadett was Opel's smallest model; however, as it grew in size with each generation , the Opel Corsa became GM/Opel's entry-level model.
The first Opel car to carry the Kadett name was presented to the public in December 1936 by Opel's commercial-technical director, Heinrich Nordhoff, who would in later decades become known for his leadership role in building up the Volkswagen company. Production was interrupted in 1940 by World War II....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E Overview:
Opel Kadett (E). With 126 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 950 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Opel Kadett E was produced before the establishment of Euro NCAP in 1997, and as such, it was not officially tested. Safety features are basic by modern standards.
1.6 S (90 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A strong mid-range performer, with 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds, offering a good blend of power and usability.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel economy for its power output, making it a popular choice for those wanting a bit more punch.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Wide range of efficient and powerful engines available
- • Practical and spacious interior for its class
- • Aerodynamic design was modern for its time
- • Generally robust and reliable mechanics
- • Excellent value on the used car market
Cons:
- • Interior materials and design are dated by modern standards
- • Basic safety features, lacking modern NCAP ratings
- • Prone to rust, especially in older models
- • Some carburetted engines can be temperamental
- • Ride comfort can be firm on poorer roads
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(D: 1983 - 1984).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Opel |
| Model: | Kadett |
| Generation: | E |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.6 S (90 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1984 |
| End of production: | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 90 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 56.3 Hp/l [220mm more] |
| Torque: | 126 Nm @ 3800-4200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 16SH More details about the engine 16SH |
| Engine displacement: | 1598 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 3.25 l |
| Coolant: | 7.7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 79.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 180 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.5 kg/Nm, 132.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 950 |
| Max. weight: | 1445 |
| Max load: | 495 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 890 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 550 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 52 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4218 mm mm [220mm more] |
| Width: | 1658 mm mm [22mm more] |
| Height: | 1400 mm mm [20mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2520 mm mm [6mm more] |
| Front track: | 1406 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1406 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.5 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |

















What’s the best feature of the Opel Kadett? Tell us in the comments!