1974 Opel Rekord vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Vectra (100 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 400 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Vectra (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Rekord | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Rekord | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2500 mm |
