1984 Vauxhall Carlton vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Carlton would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Vauxhall Carlton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. (70 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 200 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. (135 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Vauxhall Carlton | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Carlton | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
