1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Rekord (90 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Rekord weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1983 Opel Rekord (146 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
