2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Kadett |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1194 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 269 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 61 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |