2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1966 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1966 Opel Rekord. (88 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Opel Rekord weights approximately 320 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1966 Opel Rekord 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 1966 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Opel Rekord. (146 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1966 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1895 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
