2009 BMW M3 vs. 1985 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 546 kg more than 1985 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1985 Opel Kadett
Make BMW Opel
Model M3 Kadett
Year Released 2009 1985
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 414 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 140 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 774 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4110 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 40 L