2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 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 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 465 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.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1078 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
