2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 630 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, 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 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 3 | Kadett |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 61 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |