2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 520 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Because 1973 Opel Kadett 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | Cooper | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
