2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1983 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1983 Opel Kadett. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 805 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Kadett. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Kadett. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1983 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1983 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1983 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
