1997 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 328 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 2004 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2840 mm |
