1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 1984 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1989 Dodge Shadow is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1984 Opel Rekord. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 1984 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Shadow weights approximately 173 kg more than 1984 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Opel Rekord. (143 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 1984 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Shadow | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
