2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 661 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1985 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1985 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
