1996 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 17 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 510 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 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 42 L |
