2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Opel Rekord weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Roadster (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | Roadster | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2680 mm |
