1985 Opel Kadett vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 502 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 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (101 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Kadett | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Kadett | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 858 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
