2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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 6 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 43 L |
