2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1976 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1976 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
