1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Vectra (81 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 415 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Mazda 323 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 1994 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Vectra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
