1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626. 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 (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
