1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 55 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1979 Opel Kadett (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Kadett |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |