2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 970 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 42 L |
