2003 Holden Vectra vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Vectra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Holden Vectra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Vectra weights approximately 147 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Vectra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Vectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
