2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Rekord (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Opel Rekord weights approximately 121 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 1983 Opel Rekord (186 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
