2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 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), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 350 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.
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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Kadett. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
