2008 BMW 550 vs. 1983 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 25 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1983 Opel Kadett. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 740 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 2008 BMW 550 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 2008 BMW 550. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Kadett. (148 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1983 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 550 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
