1985 Opel Kadett vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 26 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 942 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (101 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Kadett | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kadett | CLS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 858 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
