2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 809 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 2003 Chevrolet SSR has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | SSR | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
