1974 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 763 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-3 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-3 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
