2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 334 kg more than 1973 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
