2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Vectra (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Vectra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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 Vauxhall Vectra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2004 Vauxhall Vectra has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Vauxhall Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2004 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
