2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Kadett would be higher. Both 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1986 Opel Kadett are equipped with a 1,596 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1986 Opel Kadett. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Kadett.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Kadett. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
