1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1972 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Opel Rekord weights approximately 6 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1972 Opel Rekord 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 1972 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1972 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
