1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1989 Dodge Shadow is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Shadow (175 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Shadow weights approximately 168 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Shadow | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
