2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
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 Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
