2008 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 29 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 770 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.

Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1979 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1979 Opel Kadett
Make BMW Opel
Model X3 Kadett
Year Released 2008 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1584 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 42 L