1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Kadett (115 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 165 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1985 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1985 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2530 mm |
