2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Opel Speedster. (147 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1999 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Opel Speedster 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 1999 Opel Speedster. 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 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Speedster. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1999 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
