2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 280 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 1979 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 1979 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 (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1979 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 43 L |
