1996 Opel Omega vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Omega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Omega would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Opel Omega. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Omega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Omega weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1996 Opel Omega 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 1996 Opel Omega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Omega. (178 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Omega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Omega | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Omega | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
