2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1971 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1971 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
