2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1962 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1962 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1962 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 465 kg more than 1962 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Opel Kadett. (70 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 1962 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2330 mm |
