2003 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 23 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 435 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 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
