2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 715 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart has automatic transmission and 1973 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1973 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | Smart | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1078 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 43 L |
