1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1996 Mazda 121 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (81 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
