2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1976 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 290 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Opel Kadett 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1976 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 43 L |
