2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 280 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 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett. 1985 Opel Kadett has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Opel Kadett will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
