2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1978 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Kadett |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 90 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 61 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |