1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 685 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2530 mm |
