1985 Opel Kadett vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 19 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 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 196 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 1985 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 1985 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour, 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, 2004 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Kadett | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Kadett | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 774 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 47 L |
