2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 3 | Kadett |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 61 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |