2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 270 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 42 L |
