2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1980 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 409 more horse power than 1980 Opel Kadett. (91 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 127 kg more than 1980 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Kadett. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1980 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
