1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 479 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
