1986 Mazda 323 vs. 1976 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,071 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 323 (53 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 323 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323, 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, 1986 Mazda 323 (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 1976 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
