2008 BMW M3 vs. 1983 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 1983 Opel Kadett. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 650 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Kadett. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1983 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
