1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1975 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1975 Opel Kadett. (98 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 216 kg more than 1975 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Kadett. (148 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1975 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
