1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
