2002 Vauxhall Vectra vs. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra (100 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 545 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Vauxhall Vectra | 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
