2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1983 Opel Kadett. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 795 kg more than 1983 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 552 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Kadett. (148 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
