2009 BMW 650 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 30 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 415 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 2009 BMW 650 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 2009 BMW 650. 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, 2009 BMW 650 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 650 1979 Opel Kadett
Make BMW Opel
Model 650 Kadett
Year Released 2009 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 362 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.2:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 170 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1380 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 42 L