1988 Opel Kadett vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 Opel Kadett. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 169 kg more than 1988 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Opel Kadett (195 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Opel Kadett | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Kadett | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1007 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
