1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2002 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Opel Vectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Vectra weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Vectra (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2002 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
