1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1986 Opel Kadett. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Kadett.
Because 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Kadett. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1986 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
