2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 830 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 43 L |
