2009 BMW M5 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett

To start off, 2009 BMW M5 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M5 weights approximately 866 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 M5 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 M5. 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 M5 (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett. 2009 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1979 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1979 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M5 1979 Opel Kadett
Make BMW Opel
Model M5 Kadett
Year Released 2009 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4999 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 10 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 500 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 7750 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 520 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 6100 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.2 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 9.2:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 170 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1836 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 42 L