1973 BMW 525 vs. 1985 Opel Kadett

To start off, 1985 Opel Kadett is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 525 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 525 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 BMW 525 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 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett, 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, 1973 BMW 525 (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.

Compare all specifications:

1973 BMW 525 1985 Opel Kadett
Make BMW Opel
Model 525 Kadett
Year Released 1973 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 143 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 208 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71.6 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 192 km/hour 191 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.5 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2530 mm