1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mazda 323 (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mazda 323 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1977 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Mazda 323 (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1977 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
