1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,169 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 896 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Opel |
Model | Sprite | Vectra |
Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 2169 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |