1981 Ford Falcon vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 153 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 1981 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Falcon | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Falcon | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
