1985 Opel Kadett vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 25 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 647 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (101 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1985 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Opel Kadett 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Opel Mercedes-Benz
Model Kadett SLK
Year Released 1985 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1295 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 75 HP 300 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 101 Nm 359 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4900 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 858 kg 1505 kg
Vehicle Length 4010 mm 4102 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1788 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1298 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2431 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L