1999 BMW M5 vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1999 BMW M5 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW M5 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1980 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW M5 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 1999 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M5 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
